Why We Play Pickleball?
21st Century Human
In a world where technology has taken hold, where we carry phones everywhere we go, and screen time is a matter of course, being able to take a break from that is most welcome. We respond in a very automated way to the beeps and ding alerts on our mobile devices.
Get on the court with a group of friends and you’re in a new mindset – one where you are into the game and the phone is put aside. The sport is multigenerational – families play, grandkids and grandparents too.
We are social beings, yet in-person socialization becomes scarce in our technologically-integrated lives. Working remotely, … dating initiated with a swipe right, … enter pickleball. The population now is getting older as life expectancy increases – what a perfect gift – a sport that keeps people young at heart and increases physical health. A social community where adults now have “play dates”!
Pickleball invites building new skills. Many sports would not be so accessible at a later stage in life. Yet, with a plastic ball and a paddle, a court that four people share, two per side, it is more than doable.
Not all shots go well, but those that do, and some really can amaze, encourages competence in a body that otherwise might have been forgotten. Exercise and fun at the same time equals healthier adults.
Even those who have never played sports try it out and find success. No matter the level, matched payers can enjoy the game and feel accomplished. Being able to serve and return and dink and volley – nice part of a day.
How many of these people who now frequent pickleball courts would otherwise have been home with a remote flicking through channels? Plenty. For adults in their 60s – late 80s, being active and having a social life brings renewed connection and vibrancy. Exercise and a friend’s group. Great combo.
Playing daily – many do. As a matter of fact, not playing causes certain feelings that something is not quite right! What is the draw?
There is a sense of purpose in the game and maintaining a connection to others in the group. The camaraderie on the courts exists in a big way. Sure, there are those who sometimes act uncouth, banging a lot or calling shots out that were in. Not great. Yet, usually, a sincere friendliness persists. People encourage one another through play – great shot, nice get, good try. The game is fast-paced, and a mistake needs to be forgotten so that the next point can start.
Our heads are so often full of thoughts, a constant chatter. Being on a court playing pickleball allows for time away from that type of thinking. The game invites letting go of extraneous thought, having only to focus on the ball. Keep your eye on the ball. How refreshing!
We find on the court the ability to stay present. We learn to transfer this ability into our lives off the court. Ready for what is right in front of us, experiencing life through all our senses, alive, awake, aware.
All that from pickleball.
Play on!
Please share your thoughts and stories from the courts. Why do you play pickleball?
Melinda organizes Carpe Dink’em Pickleball With Heart Travel. Each Pickleball vacation supports a local organization and donates to Doctors Without Borders.
For pickleball mindset coaching and inspiration, contact Melinda to join the Pickleball With Presence Community.
Pickleball With Heart ~ It Sets Us Apart.
